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Natural Wood and Sustainable Technologies Create A Retreat for Experiencing The Northern Lights

Authors:
Michael paul Lewis, Will Campbell
Natural Wood and Sustainable Technologies Create A Retreat for Experiencing The Northern Lights

Project in-detail

Utilizing local cedar wood and Structural Insulated Panels, the retreat harmonizes with Iceland's landscape, offering guests a secluded space to experience the Northern Lights in comfort and sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes Structural Insulated Panels for superior energy efficiency.
02
Incorporates locally sourced cedar wood for durability and aesthetic harmony.
03
Features a communal feasting hall designed for social interaction with expansive views.
04
Strategically oriented cabins maximize visibility of the Northern Lights.
05
Integrates geo-thermal heating systems for sustainable climate control.

### Overview

The Iceland Northern Lights Rooms project is situated in Iceland, characterized by its striking volcanic landscape and icy terrain. Designed as a retreat, the project aims to harmonize with the surrounding environment while highlighting sustainability and community engagement. The architectural intent emphasizes creating an immersive experience that allows visitors to appreciate the natural phenomena of the Northern Lights.

### Spatial Configuration

The design features a series of small dwellings strategically arranged along the landscape to optimize guest experience and minimize environmental impact. A central pathway acts as a spine, linking the various structures and encouraging exploration across the site. Each building is oriented to provide unobstructed views of the Northern Lights, enhancing visitors' interaction with Iceland’s unique atmospheric qualities. Key elements include a communal feasting hall that fosters social engagement, guest cabins designed for privacy and comfort, and pathways that facilitate movement and discovery throughout the area.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

This project integrates sustainable building practices through the use of energy-efficient Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) and a careful selection of locally sourced materials. Exterior cladding features cedar wood for durability and aesthetic appeal, while the warm interiors utilize Icelandic birch to promote local craftsmanship. Siberian larch is employed in decking and roofing for its resilience in harsh conditions, and recycled materials are incorporated throughout to emphasize waste reduction. The implementation of modern technologies, such as solar panels and geothermal heating systems, further enhances resource sustainability and promotes self-sufficiency.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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